Trip IdeasThe North Coast and Northern Highlands Places
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Barranca
A nondescript town with little to visit except a large Chimú temple nearby, this is a stop for those who are either determined to see every archaeological site in Peru or do not have the time to... (more) -
Cajamarca
Cajamarca is the best place to stay if you want to explore the lovely landscape and rich history of the northern highlands; from here there are a number of daylong excursions to nearby ruins and hot springs... (more) -
Caraz
One of the few towns in the area with a cluster of colonial-era architecture, Caraz is at the northern tip of the valley—only a partly paved road continues north. North of Caraz on the dramatic road... (more) -
Carhuaz
A small, laid-back village, less touched by recent earthquakes, Carhuaz is a popular stop along the Callejón de Huaylas. A bright spot is the ice-cream shop, which scoops up excellent homemade... (more) -
Casma
Once known as the "City of Eternal Sun," Casma, like Lima, is now subject to cloudy winters and sunny summers. However, with its leafy Plaza de Armas and a number of pleasant parks, it makes the best base... (more) -
Chachapoyas
At the ceja de la selva (jungle's eyebrow), Chachapoyas is the capital of Peru's Amazonas department. The town is a good jumping-off point for exploring some of Peru's most fascinating and least-visited... (more) -
Chavín de Huántar
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Chiclayo
A lively commercial center, Chiclayo is prosperous and easygoing. Although it doesn't have any colonial architecture or special outward beauty, it's surrounded by numerous pre-Columbian sites. The Moche... (more) -
Ferreñafe
Although it's produced more winners of the Miss Peru contest than any other town, Ferreñafe has other charms. The Iglesia Santa Lucia, begun in 1552, is a good example of baroque architecture. However... (more) -
Huanchaco
Less than half an hour away from the city, Huanchaco is a little beach community where surfers, tourists, affluent Trujillianos, families, and couples easily mix. With excellent restaurants, comfortable... (more) -
Huaraz
Peru's number-one trekking and adventure-sports destination, Huaraz is an easy starting point for those wishing to explore the vast wilderness of the Cordillera Blanca. Unfortunately, the town has been... (more) -
Kuélap
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Lagunas de Llanganuco
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Lambayeque
This small town has some well-preserved colonial-era buildings but the reason to come is for the outstanding museums. The museums exhibit details about the Moche civilization, and the original artifacts... (more) -
Máncora
This laid-back beach destination, famous for its sunshine and white-sand beaches has excellent waves for surfing, fishing, and diving. Although the relaxed but dusty town has tourist offices, restaurants... (more) -
Monterrey
This area provides a quiet and attractive alternative to Huaraz. For some, it can feel isolating: there isn't a town center, just hotels and restaurants spread about. There are local hot springs and a... (more) -
Piura
The sunny climate, friendly people, and good food make Piura a delightful stop on your way north. Since most of the major flight and bus routes to the north-coast beaches travel through Piura, stopping... (more) -
Playa Tortugas
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Punta Sal
Sit on the beach, go for a swim, and relax in the afternoon sun—just what you want from a beach resort. That's probably why Punta Sal has become a popular vacation spot in recent years. A few kilometers... (more) -
Sipán
This tiny village of about 1,700 doesn't offer much, but nearby is one of the country's major archaeological sites. Arrange for a taxi or tour to take you to the tomb of the Lord of Sipán.... (more) -
Trujillo
The well-preserved colonial architecture, pleasant climate, and archeological sites have made Trujillo a popular tourist destination. The Plaza de Armas and beautifully maintained colonial buildings make... (more) -
Yungay
On May 31, 1970, an earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale shook loose some 15 million cubic meters of rock and ice that cascaded down the west wall of Huascarán Norte. In the quiet village... (more)
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